Connection between Tinnitus and TMJ

TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorders) treated by our TMJ Farmington Hills dentist commonly are related to the development of tinnitus. Though rare, people who have TMJ sometimes will develop a frequent ringing in their ears, or tinnitus, because of overstimulated tensor muscles that adversely affect the inside ear. Treatment for tinnitus and TMJ generally is dependent upon relieving the symptoms of TMJ. However, during the interim, symptoms of tinnitus might be managed using of noise suppression methods and medication.

How does one develop TMJ and tinnitus?

Generally, individuals develop tinnitus and TMJ as their temporomandibular joint is damaged because of disease or injury. It isn’t uncommon for people who have systemic conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, to develop symptoms of TMJ as the consequence of joint degeneration. Irrespective of the cause, joint damage related to TMJ may cause affected muscles to operate overtime, and create tenderness and sensitivity inside the inner ear, particularly the Eustachian tube. The frequent overstimulation of the affected muscles results in a consistent high-pitched or ringing sound

How is TMJ diagnosed?

A TMJ diagnosis by our TMJ Farmington Hills dentist generally is confirmed by administrating imaging tests, like a CT (computerized tomography) scan and X-ray, to assess the joint damage’s extent. The ones who experience tinnitus symptoms might undergo extra testing, which include a hearing test, to decide the seriousness of their condition. In a few instances, a dental evaluation also may be done if the person presents with dental problems which might either be induced by or is causing the tinnitus and TMJ symptoms, like tooth grinding or ill-fitting dentures.

Symptoms of TMJ

Usually, individuals who have TMJ will experience discomfort in the face, an impaired capability of biting and chewing, as well as headaches. Apart from the clicking or grating noise which frequently comes with temporomandibular joint disorders, people who have symptoms of TMJ and tinnitus will experience a constant buzzing, hissing, or ringing sound inside the affected ear. A few people with tinnitus and TMJ also may experience discomfort in the neck and head region, as well as ear discomfort and episodes of vertigo.

As TMJ is the underlying tinnitus symptom cause, and the disorder is moderate to serious, various treatment approaches by our TMJ Farmington Hills dentist might be used. Some people might go through corrective surgery to restore or mend the temporomandibular joint in order for to normally function. Analgesic medications and prescription strength corticosteroids also may ease discomfort and inflammation. Different approaches might be used to relieve tinnitus symptoms, which include the use of antidepressant medications and white noise machines.